Letter To The Editor-Dr. Michelle Johnstone

Posted:
07/23/2013 04:00:00 PM MDT

Dear Brush School District Community,Did you know? The local school board grew out of the town meeting, dating back more than 200 years to the original thirteen colonies.Times have changed, but the basic function of school boards today remains the same: to provide local citizen control over public education. As we look to begin the 2013-2014 school year our Board of Education met in an all day retreat on July 16.We reviewed student achievement scores, survey feedback, our Comprehensive Appraisal for District Improvement (CADI), as well as research based best educational practices. Colorado Association of School Boards (CASB) provides board members with learning opportunities and guidance.According to CASB effective boards of education; lead strategically, relate well with the superintendent, work effectively as a governing group, oversee district personnel actions and decision, oversee the district’s academic program, make sound and responsible fiscal decisions, oversee and invest district facilities, assure the health and wellness of students and staff, and make decisions based upon the long-term, systematic impact, implement and monitor sound, understandable policy, and engage the public in district matters. Based on student achievement needs, survey feedback and research our Board of Education will continue to focus on the following three goals; (1) Achievement: The Board of Education will devote time and resources in order to move Brush School District toward the top 10% in Colorado, which will lead to improving the academic achievement for all students.

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(2) Community Engagement: The Board of Education will work to increase community engagement and strengthen partnerships. (3) Communication: The Board of Education will be engaged in consistent communication of its’ goals and vision for the district’s students, staff, and community. This coming year we will have four positions on the board up for election. Our board President, Don Dillehay is term limited.Our Vice President, Blaine Uhrig has decided at this time not to seek re-election.Both Warren Walker and Mike Dixon are planning on running.A candidate for the school board must be a registered voter and a resident of the Brush School District for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the election. School Board elections are nonpartisan; candidates may not campaign as members of a political party. A person who desires to be a candidate must file a nomination petition signed by 50 eligible electors.Petitions can be picked up at the district offices on or after August 7 and need to be returned by August 30th.As a reminder October 7 is the last day to register to vote. Ballots will be mailed to voters October 5-8.If you would like additional information about the election process, you are welcome to call Tracy Amen, the Administrative Assistant to the Board of Education and Superintendent.Good school systems begin with good schools boards.Just like municipalities, community service agencies and other worthwhile nonprofit institutions, public schools depend on effective citizen leaders for their success.Please consider bringing your unique talents and skills to the Brush School District Board of Education.